Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s healthcare industry, the need for Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons is more significant than ever.

As medical advancements continue to progress, the demand for skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and manage musculoskeletal issues in children escalates.

But what is truly expected from a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to grasp the core of this profession,
• A hiring manager creating the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of pediatric orthopedic surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons are specialized medical professionals who diagnose and treat bone, joint, or muscle issues in children.

They use surgical and non-surgical procedures to address various conditions, from fractures and deformities to growth-related issues and diseases.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Evaluating and diagnosing musculoskeletal issues in children and adolescents
• Performing surgeries on children to correct deformities, repair injuries and improve overall health
• Using medical imaging technology, such as X-ray, MRI, and CT scan, to diagnose conditions
• Recommending and implementing non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or medication as appropriate
• Providing pre-surgical consultations and post-surgical follow-ups to monitor recovery and rehabilitation
• Documenting patient histories, treatments, and progress for medical records
• Staying updated about the latest advancements in pediatric orthopedic surgery
• Communicating with families and caregivers to explain diagnosis, treatment options, and future care needs
• Collaborating with other medical professionals such as pediatricians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists to provide comprehensive care
• Maintaining high standards of ethics and professionalism in the treatment of patients

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon to join our team.

The successful candidate will provide exceptional surgical and non-surgical treatment for children experiencing musculoskeletal issues, including congenital disorders, trauma-related injuries, and diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and diagnose pediatric orthopedic conditions and injuries.
• Perform surgical procedures to address orthopedic issues in children.
• Provide non-surgical treatment options, including braces, casts, and physical therapy.
• Collaborate with other physicians and healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
• Communicate effectively with patients and their families, educating them on treatment options and care plans.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in pediatric orthopedic surgery.
• Participate in on-call rotation as required.

 

Qualifications

• Board certified or board eligible in Orthopedic Surgery with a subspecialty in Pediatrics.
• Current, unrestricted medical license in the state of practice.
• Proven experience as a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon.
• Demonstrated surgical skills and knowledge of child-related illnesses and treatments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with children and their families.
• Commitment to continuous learning and medical innovations.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid time off
• Malpractice insurance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon
• Work Environment: This position involves working in a hospital or medical clinic environment. On-call and/or overnight shift may be required.
• Reporting Structure: The Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon will report directly to the Department Head of Orthopedic Surgery.
• Salary: Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if relocation is provided)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Do?

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing musculoskeletal conditions in children.

They deal with a variety of issues, such as bone and joint disorders, fractures, deformities, and infections.

These may include conditions like clubfoot, scoliosis, limb length discrepancies, and cerebral palsy.

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons perform surgeries to correct or treat these conditions, always with the growth and development of the young patient in mind.

This might include setting fractures, correcting bone deformities, or surgically treating bone or joint infections.

In addition to performing surgeries, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons also provide non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy or using braces, and provide advice on managing the child’s condition at home.

They work closely with other healthcare professionals like pediatricians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

The Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon’s role also often involves counseling the child and their family, helping them understand the condition and the treatment plan, and addressing any concerns or fears they might have.

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon must possess a unique combination of skills and qualifications, encompassing both medical expertise and a child-friendly demeanor.

This includes:

• Completion of a medical degree (MD or DO), a surgical residency, and a fellowship in pediatric orthopedic surgery.
• Board certification or eligibility in Orthopedic Surgery, indicating a high level of knowledge and competence in the field.
• Extensive knowledge of musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, diseases, and deformities that affect children, and how these conditions may differ from similar conditions in adults.
• Skilled in performing orthopedic surgeries such as spinal surgeries, fracture repairs, and corrections of deformities, while minimizing pain and distress for the child.
• Ability to interpret diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and lab results.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain complex medical conditions and procedures to children and their families, and to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals.
• Compassionate and patient bedside manner, able to put children at ease and reassure worried parents.
• Attention to detail and high level of manual dexterity to perform delicate surgical procedures.
• Problem-solving skills to diagnose complex conditions and devise effective treatment plans.
• Ability to keep up with the latest medical research and advancements in pediatric orthopedic surgery.

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Experience Requirements

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons are required to go through extensive education and training in their field.

The journey usually starts with a 4-year undergraduate program, typically in a science-related field, followed by 4 years of medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D) degree.

After completing medical school, aspiring Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons are required to undertake a 5-year orthopedic surgery residency, which provides rigorous and comprehensive training in various aspects of adult and pediatric orthopedics.

Following the completion of the residency, they must then spend an additional year (at minimum) in a pediatric orthopedic fellowship program.

This program provides in-depth experience in treating musculoskeletal conditions and injuries in children and adolescents.

In total, it may take more than 14 years of education and training to become a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon.

Beyond these educational requirements, several years of experience in the medical field is often required for these professionals to develop their surgical and patient care skills.

This experience is often gained through the residency and fellowship programs, but additional years of experience in a medical or surgical setting can be beneficial.

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons with over 5 years of experience post-fellowship may be eligible for senior or leadership positions within a healthcare organization or hospital.

They may also consider becoming a faculty member at a medical school or developing a private practice.

Additional certification from the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) can also validate a surgeon’s expertise and experience in this field.

Therefore, it’s essential for these professionals to commit to continuous learning and skill improvement throughout their careers.

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

A Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon typically requires a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from an accredited medical school.

The medical school journey begins with a pre-medical undergraduate degree, majoring in a science-related subject such as Biology or Chemistry.

Then, prospective surgeons need to pass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) to gain admission to medical school.

Following the completion of medical school, a 5-year residency in orthopedic surgery is required.

This residency combines both surgical and medical training.

After completing the general orthopedic surgery residency, a fellowship in pediatric orthopedics is required.

This fellowship usually lasts 1 to 2 years and provides specialized training in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal conditions in children.

To practice medicine, pediatric orthopedic surgeons must be licensed in the state where they intend to work.

This involves passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination.

Most pediatric orthopedic surgeons opt to become board certified through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, which requires passing written and oral exams.

Recertification is required every 10 years.

Continuing education is essential in this field as it aids in staying up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques, technology, and research.

This may involve attending seminars, workshops, or conferences.

Optional subspecialty certification in areas such as sports medicine or hand surgery can also be pursued for further expertise.

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon earns an average salary of $395,420 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings may vary significantly based on experience, specialization, and the geographical location of the practice.

Additionally, the salary can also be influenced by the type of healthcare facility where the surgeon is employed.

 

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What are the qualifications needed to become a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons need to complete a Bachelor’s degree, followed by four years of medical school, and a five-year residency in orthopedic surgery.

After this, they must undertake a pediatric orthopedic fellowship, which typically lasts for one year.

They also need to be licensed to practice medicine and must be certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

 

What are the typical duties of a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons diagnose and treat conditions related to the musculoskeletal system in children.

This may include performing surgeries to correct congenital disorders, treating sports injuries, or handling fractures and dislocations.

They also manage patients’ postoperative care, consult with other physicians, and conduct research in orthopedics.

 

What skills are important for a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons should possess excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination, as surgeries require precise movements.

They should have strong analytical skills to accurately diagnose and develop treatment plans.

Communication skills are also crucial for explaining complex medical conditions to patients and their families.

Additionally, they need patience and compassion when dealing with children and their families.

 

What should you look for in a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon’s resume?

Ensure the candidate has the necessary educational qualifications and licenses.

Experience in pediatric orthopedics, whether through residency or a fellowship, is crucial.

Look for any sub-specialty areas, such as sports medicine or spinal surgery, which may align with your clinic’s needs.

They should also have good references and a track record of successful surgeries.

Any publications or participation in research can be a positive sign of their commitment to the field.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

Yes, it can be a challenge to hire Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons due to the specific qualifications and training needed for this role.

There is a smaller pool of candidates as it is a specialized field.

Offering competitive compensation, benefits, and providing opportunities for continued learning and research can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the day-to-day life of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.

And guess what?

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about shaping the future of child healthcare, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive pediatric orthopedic surgeon job description template and real-world examples, you’re all ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate resource for creating pinpoint-accurate job listings or refining your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient you treat is a step closer to a healthier future.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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